Psychosocial Oncology

The Department of Psychosocial Oncology at Presbyterian/St. Luke's Medical Center was created to meet the support needs of bone and marrow transplant and oncology patients.

While the cancer experience is physical in nature, it is also an emotional experience for patients and their loved ones. Cancer gives rise to a number of psychological and social problems that, when not addressed, can lead to increased distress. As a commitment to providing the highest quality cancer care, the Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Comprehensive Cancer Program has developed a new department, the Psychosocial Oncology Department, to better meet the emotional needs of cancer patients and their loved ones.

Support services in the Psychosocial Oncology Department are provided by psychologists and social workers who offer a range of services such as providing individual, family or group support, identifying and accessing grants and resources in the community, help with practical issues such as transportation and housing, assistance in obtaining medical leave or disability, and providing education on what to expect through the transplant process from an emotional perspective. The department also includes a well-established psychology postdoctoral training program and a new practicum training program for graduate students in clinical psychology.

Members of the psychosocial oncology team are here to help you through the transplant experience. Please let them know how they can assist you. For more information about all our staff members please view our Psychosocial Staff page.